1. An expansive peninsula without a sink can be used for food prep, casual family meals and as a homework station for kids. A durable material like quartz is a great low-maintenance option for a family.

2. Situating one extra-deep sink in the centre of the long counter means it will have plenty of elbow room on either side, and a single-hole faucet with extendable hose makes cleanup a breeze.

3. Installing generous upper and lower cabinets on one wall means essentials like pantry foods and everyday dishware can be stored in one place.

4. Housing the fridge and range on the same stretch of counter across from the sink creates a work triangle with loads of open floor space and flow.

5. A double oven ups the room’s functionality, allowing for efficient cooking of big or small meals.

6. An office nook is integrated in one corner as a place for paying bills or a second homework zone. A wall sconce negates the need for a desk lamp.

7. An armchair is a spot for reading, and a wall-mounted TV creates a cosy hub for watching a movie.

Designer and W Network star Jennifer Reid wanted a kitchen that would accommodate dining, cooking, lounging and working. A large wood table adds warmth and balances out the modern grey island. A workspace in the back corner serves as a home office for the adults and a homework zone for the kids.

1. Repositioning the adjacent dining room’s doorway to the opposite end of the room allowed for an extra-long main wall that can hold a fridge with pullout freezer on the bottom and a triple oven — plus prep space for meals and storage for small appliances and entertaining pieces.

2. An island outfitted with a sink divides the space nicely and creates a functional work triangle between the main wall and island. It’s also great for prepping and plating food for guests.

3. There is plenty of floor space opposite for guests to mingle and help themselves to food and drinks without getting in the cook’s way.

4. A large framed chalkboard is a fun addition in any kitchen. It can be a spot to post the evening’s menu or serve as a temporary guest book for friends and family to write thank-you’s and musings. It’s also a convenient spot to jot grocery lists and recipe ideas.

5. A wide open space in front of the french doors extends the kitchen to the backyard deck, letting guests wander freely in and out on warmer days.

Owner and designer Julie Charbonneau broke up her white kitchen by dramatically framing the door to the loft’s bedroom — and the window beyond — with extra-wide wood trim. A concrete ceiling layers texture into the clean-lined space.

1. A double galley-style layout with loads of surface space means two cooks can work at once without tripping over each other.

2. An undercounter speed oven combines a microwave with a convection-mode oven and is integral for a busy lifestyle.

3. Tucked right alongside the range and wall, a small section of counter is a handy spot for storing and displaying oils and spices in pretty bottles and jars.

4. Smaller than an island, a charming Euro-inspired worktable with stainless steel top takes up little floor space but adds an extra prep surface.

5. Incorporating a built-in counter-depth fridge next to a pantry of the same height gives the kitchen a seamless look.

6. A bank of upper and lower cabinets beside the fridge offers a variety of storage options, amping up the room’s practicality and allowing for an extra work surface.

7. Creating a fully furnished eating area in the kitchen frees up the adjacent dining room for another purpose, like expanding a home’s living areas. Setting the table near the french doors gives pretty views of the yard.